We read with horror of the "Try The Taser!" booth at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where random people can test out what it would feel like to be tasered. The company is marketing a consumer version (in four stylish colors, including metallic pink!), because loosing a bunch of trigger-happy taserists on the world couldn't possibly go wrong. From the website:

The TASER C2 can stop a threat up to 15 feet away, allowing you to protect yourself and your family from a safe distance. You can also use the C2 as a contact stun device to repel someone - a powerful backup capability.

To "promote responsible ownership," those wishing to purchase a Taser must undergo a background check, the successful completion of which is necessary to activate the device. Whew, what a relief — that background check is sure to weed out everyone who might not use the Taser responsibly!

Responsible tasering was exemplified today by ABC's Amanda Congdon, who absorbed 50,000 volts to the back, jerking violently and needing support on either side to stay upright, and Geek Factory publicistPeter Shankman, who said he "went down like a rifled hippo" and compared it to getting shot.

Wow, with most people, the cops just shoot you. Who would volunteer to be tazed but TV reporters